Introduction to Organizational Behavior Theorists
In the study of organizational behavior, various theorists have made significant contributions. Among them, Herbert Simon is recognized for emphasizing the importance of communication within organizations.
Herbert Simon's Contributions
- Decision-Making Focus: Simon's work primarily revolves around decision-making processes in organizations. He introduced the concept of "bounded rationality," suggesting that individuals make decisions based on limited information and cognitive limitations.
- Communication as a Tool: Simon recognized communication as a crucial element in facilitating decision-making. He argued that effective communication channels are essential for sharing information, which directly impacts organizational efficiency.
- Organizational Structure Insight: He explored how communication flows within an organization and how it affects the structure and behavior of teams and departments. Simon's insights highlighted that communication is not just a peripheral activity but a core component of organizational dynamics.
Comparison with Other Theorists
- Fayol and Barnard: While Henri Fayol and Chester Barnard also discussed aspects of communication, their focus was more on management principles and organizational theory, rather than on the intricate role of communication in decision-making processes.
- Norbert Wiener: Although Wiener contributed significantly to communication theory through cybernetics, his focus was not specifically on organizational behavior.
Conclusion
In summary, Herbert Simon stands out as the first theorist to underscore communication's critical role in organizational behavior, particularly in decision-making contexts. His insights laid the groundwork for understanding how communication impacts organizational effectiveness and structure.

Herbert Simon was the first theorist to underscore the importance of communication in organizational behavior. He believed that effective communication was essential for the functioning and success of any organization, as it facilitates the transmission of decisional premises among its members.